Overview

Lectures will include:
- an overview of the field of L2 speech learning.
- introduction to the major concepts in the field.
- role of the first language.
- transfer; interlanguage.
- current L2 speech learning models.
- cross-language phonetic similarity.
- foreign accent and the factors involved in (un)successful learning.
- segmental and suprasegmental production and perception.
- implications for foreign language teaching.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold D-D+: Student has achieved the minimum acceptable standard of understanding and/or knowledge in all the learning outcomes. Student can demonstrate a minimum level of understanding of the basic concepts and be able to apply them to data with some degree of accuracy.

C- to C+ : The answer must address the question. The answer must show a basic knowledge and understanding of the relevant key areas and principles of the foundational theories, constructs and methodologies of Linguistics. The answers shows only basic ability in the learning outcomes. The student must show evidence of being able to apply the principles to the analysis of language and linguistic examples and/or data. The answer must evidence of some background study.

-good B- to B+: Student has achieved a better-than-average standard of understanding and/or knowledge in all learning outcomes, and has a clear and accurate understanding of concepts; ability to apply concepts to data critically and thoughtfully; evidence of wide reading and clear and accurate reference to source materials; free from misunderstanding and errors of content; free from irrelevant material.

-excellent A- to A*: Student has achieved a thorough standard of understanding and/or knowledge in all learning outcomes; or student has demonstrated an exceptional level of achievement in one or more learning outcomes together with a good overall standard: student has achieved a thorough understanding of the subject, both in terms of content and theory; student is able to apply concepts clearly and accurately; substantial evidence of critical and original thought and analysis; clear, logical argument; high level of communicative competence; free from irrelevant material and errors of spelling and punctuation; evidence of extensive reading beyond basic texts and clear and accurate references to source material.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to collect and critically analyse data and select an appropriate methodology for investigating specific L2 speech learning phenomena.

• Students will be able to critically compare and evaluate the current theories and methodologies in L2 speech learning in light of existing evidence.

• Students will be able to discuss the range of variables known to contribute to the degree of perception of foreign accentedness.

• Students will understand the main issues, concerns and controversies employed in this field of study